Suspension in Three Parts. June 5, June 19, July 3. 7-10pm

Suspensions are intense, fun, elegant, challenging, strenuous, liberating, rewarding… and they carry with them a higher risk profile. This progressive workshop series builds a functional knowledge of suspension, with the aim of acknowledging and minimizing the risks involved so that all parties can have a good time in the air. We will look at common forms/progressions in suspension, uplines, smooth body handling, balance points, trouble shooting, and other various bits of knowledge for those tying. We will also cover bottoming knowledge and body awareness, as well as communication between the tying and tied persons, and workarounds for some of the more common trouble spots. No previous suspension knowledge necessary, though tying participants should be able to tie a suspension-worthy upper body tie in under 5 minutes, and a non-collapsing single column tie on the first try. (If you want a refresher, we are running a TK workshop on Tuesday, May 29th) People being tied should have some experience in rope, though this is a flexible suggestion. If you have any questions about those guidelines, please contact us.

Part I: Partial suspensions. Tuesday June 5. 7-10pm

Part II: Static full suspensions. Tuesday June 19. 7-10pm

Part III: Transitions. Tuesday July 3. 7-10pm

If you would like to come to the Transitions workshop without coming to the others, you will need to demonstrate an understanding of uplines, body handling, safety, and communication.

Bring: ropes (enough to suspend, which generally means enough for an upper body harness plus 4ish lengths). We have some rings and carabiners to borrow for the duration of the workshop, as well as bamboo and safety cutting devices. Bring what you have, but no need to go out and buy anything just for this workshop. Comfy clothes are recommended, and I find leggings and socks/ankle warmers are helpful against rope rubbing, especially when the tying person is learning. Be aware that some of these techniques may leave rope marks.

The techniques used are more suited for natural fiber rope (hemp, jute) than synthetic.

Cost: $120/couple each workshop or $300/couple for all three. Maximum 8 couples.